Garrett Nussmeier – Quarterback
There is something quietly intriguing about this profile, even if it is not the type of evaluation that immediately sells a third round selection. The appeal lies less in star potential and more in long term role projection.
A realistic comparison is a Ryan Fitzpatrick type career arc. This is the kind of quarterback you trust as a high end backup, someone who can step in for a short stretch if the starter goes down and keep the team competitive. In that scenario, you feel comfortable expecting a split record or better, depending on the schedule and surrounding talent. Over time, there may even be brief windows where he earns starting opportunities, not because of overwhelming physical traits, but because of confidence, competitiveness, and command.
Like Fitzpatrick, this archetype thrives on anticipation and timing rather than elite arm strength. There is a willingness to attempt throws defensive backs do not expect him to try, which can lead to both impressive completions and occasional risk. That fearlessness, combined with toughness and competitive edge, gives him staying power in a league where reliability at the backup quarterback position is undervalued until it is needed.
That projection aligns well with Garrett Nussmeier. While he may never be viewed as a franchise cornerstone, his processing, anticipation, and willingness to challenge coverage suggest a player who can carve out a long NFL career. It is not a flashy outcome, but it is a valuable one, and teams that recognize that role early often benefit from it for years.
Cole Payton – Quarterback
Payton stood out as the quarterback of the first group, showing clear signs of progress. His timing looked noticeably improved, and the game appeared to be slowing down for him. Overall, it was an encouraging step forward, suggesting he is beginning to acclimate to the increased speed of competition.
Josh Cameron – Wide Receiver
The player who stood out most during the first practice was Josh Cameron from Baylor. He was one of the prospects I was most eager to evaluate entering the Senior Bowl, largely because the tape and underlying metrics suggested there was more to his game than his raw production indicated. That belief was reinforced in this setting.
Cameron consistently made difficult catches and was targeted frequently throughout the session, showcasing strong hands and reliability in contested situations. His performance drew noticeable attention after practice, as he was quickly surrounded by media, a clear signal that others around the league had taken notice as well.
While there may have been one or two players who had equally strong or slightly better individual days, that does not diminish Cameron’s impact. He was one of the clear winners of the opening practice and has firmly elevated his profile.
Given how complete his showing was, it would not be surprising if Cameron chose to limit his participation going forward. While he may elect to return and build on the momentum, he has already accomplished a great deal by confirming his value in a high visibility environment.
Caleb Douglas – Wide Receiver
One receiver who quietly showed up early and consistently was Caleb Douglas from Texas Tech. Nothing he did was flashy or eye catching, but his reliability stood out.
At six foot four, Douglas brings good size and steady production, with roughly 800 receiving yards over the past two seasons. During practice, he routinely made three to four catches and stayed involved, reinforcing his profile as a dependable target rather than a highlight driven prospect.
Ja’Kobi Lane – Wide Receiver
A couple of players showed positive bounce back performances, most notably Ja’Kobi Lane. After a disappointing first day and a slow start to Day Two, Lane finished the session on a strong note.
He came down with two deep touchdown catches in the end zone late in practice, reminding evaluators of his ability to win vertically and finish plays when given opportunities. While separation was still an issue throughout much of the session, those scoring reps matter and help rebalance his overall evaluation.
Lane’s inconsistency remains a concern, but his ability to capitalize on high leverage chances gives him something tangible to build on moving forward.
Kevin Coleman – Wide Receiver
Another player worth noting was Kevin Coleman from Missouri. He is not a high volume or explosive target, but he consistently showed up as a dependable option.
At roughly five foot ten and around 180 pounds, Coleman profiles as a short area receiver who thrives on underneath targets. He displayed reliable hands throughout the session and repeatedly moved the chains, reinforcing his value as a steady, possession style contributor rather than a big play threat.
Malachai Fields – Wide Receiver
Fields had his breakout performance during this session. From the outset, it felt like the coaching staff intentionally put him in positions to succeed, and he took full advantage of those opportunities.
After a relatively quiet first day, which is typical as players acclimate, Fields was featured far more prominently on Day Two. He was used across multiple formations and worked effectively on drag routes over the middle, consistently drawing targets and creating separation. His versatility within the route tree was evident throughout the practice.
The highlight of the day was a deep reception that traveled more than fifty yards, where Fields burned multiple defensive backs and laid out to secure the catch. That play encapsulated his game, showcasing his speed, tracking ability, and large catch radius.
Fields was active and impactful throughout the session, making his presence felt in every phase. Based on how complete his showing was, it would not be surprising if he limited further participation, though additional reps would only reinforce what he already put on display.
Overall, Fields stood out as one of the clear winners of the day. His combination of usage, production, and big play ability made this a statement performance and firmly elevated his profile.
Tyren Montgomery – Wide Receiver
Montgomery of John Carroll continued to impress, building on a strong performance from the previous day. The Division III receiver consistently found ways to get open and once again stood out through his reliability and competitiveness.
What separates Montgomery, particularly among small school prospects, is his attention to detail in the margins. He attacks the football every time it is thrown his way, never conceding the catch point or taking reps lightly. That consistent aggression shows up repeatedly and reflects a player who understands how small advantages matter when making the jump from a lower level of competition.
Montgomery’s ability to sustain that level of urgency has allowed him to continue popping throughout practices. He has not looked overwhelmed by the step up in competition and has instead used it as an opportunity to reinforce why he belongs in the conversation.
Mike Washington – Running Back
Among the running backs, no one stood out more than Mike Washington from Arkansas. This was a more physical practice, with increased contact between the offense and defense, and Washington consistently looked like a player defenders wanted no part of when tackling was allowed.
What stood out most was his efficiency of movement. Washington runs with purpose, showing no wasted steps as he works upfield or identifies his cutback lanes. His vision and decisiveness are paired with consistent physicality, as he routinely finished runs with a stiff arm and fell forward through contact.
He also made a strong impression in the passing game. During route drills, Washington hauled in a deep touchdown along the sideline on a wheel route, showcasing his ability to track the ball and finish downfield. That rep reinforced his versatility and added value to his overall profile.
Physically, Washington brings an ideal build at approximately six foot two and 228 pounds. His production supports the eye test, with 28 receptions during the 2025 season, 3.86 yards after contact, and 6.4 yards per carry. Taken together, those metrics reflect a runner who combines power, balance, and efficiency.
This performance should meaningfully boost his stock. For coaches who may not have fully appreciated his receiving ability, Washington showed he can be more than just an early down bruiser. Based on this showing, he emerges as one of the most complete and impressive running backs from the practice.